Irish dancing for your derriere!

Tired of jumping-jacks, knee lifts and grapevines? Have your workouts become mundane and ceased to move you? Here’s something that will raise your heart rate, get your toes tapping and bring a smile to your face.

Irish dance first commanded attention in the United States when Michael Flatley’s gravity defying Riverdance appeared at Radio City Music Hall in 1996. The popularity grew in 2000 during a one-year Broadway run.

The performances were only upstaged by the dancers who always look so darn fit. Always slim, toned and posture-perfect. So how do they get those bodies? And, what are the benefits of learning the fancy footwork?

Local Irish dancer and former competitor Chrissy Deacy said, “It takes a lot of cardio, so you need stamina, and you engage your core to keep your posture. You are always using your legs, because there’s a lot of interesting footwork and it’s a challenge because your arms stay by your sides.”

Deacy offered words of encouragement. “Give it a try. It may be a little overwhelming at first, but once you get the moves it’s a lot fun and the time just flies by.”

After watching Deacy whirl, twirl and leap though the air, I decided to give it a go. She broke down a few steps of the “light jig” and I fumbled along. I was more like lady of the dunce than Lord of the Dance. But, not being one to give up I persevered. After some trips and awkward moments, I was able to perform a couple of eight-counts.

“It takes a lot of coordination,” said Deacy sympathetically as I struggled to regain my balance and give it another try. “You are working your mind as well because you have to memorize the choreography.”

Then success! I completed the sequence without toppling over and gave a triumphant whoop. I was greeted by a high-five.

Deacy’s love of Irish dance began when she was 8. She competed internationally and retired at the ripe old age of 19 after placing first in her last regional competition. Deacy is passing her passion for dance onto others and is currently studying to get her teaching certification in January.

Alix Redmonde

Alix Redmonde has been a fitness expert for more than 25 years and has taught fitness on three continents. She has written for magazines including Men’s Exercise, Exercise for Men Only, Fitness, Shape and Elle. She has also appeared on the Food Network, CBNC, WNYW-TV, among others, promoting a healthy lifestyle. Redmonde is coauthor of the book “It’s Great to be Different,” which teaches children confidence, esteem and self-respect.
Redmonde lives in Sarasota with her three dogs, six cats, two doves and a thoroughbred horse.
She can be reached by email

Last modified: October 25, 2012
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